YouTube pay-TV

Google’s YouTube is set to start asking users to pay subscriptions to access some of its content starting in the spring. The first such channels could be available around Easter according to reports, with YouTube expected to charge between 60p (€0.74) and £3 a month.

The company has held talks with several video producers, asking them to submit applications to create for-pay specialist channels. In addition to episodic content, YouTube is also considering charging for content libraries and access to live events, as well as self-help or financial advice shows.

Currently all content is available to consumers for free and is supported by advertising that appears alongside the videos.